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One of the highlights of my year of many highlights was the pōwhiri, or Māori welcoming ceremony. And I am now pleased to note that it’s now available for video streaming! I’ve completed a video guide (ah, the teacher in me) so you can see the elements of what is occurring, and I bolded the portions that were the most touching to me.

52:50-55:10Whakaratarata (Reception Line) Most powerful part of the ceremony: the kisses and hongi (pressing of noses). Every person in the room participated–it went on for quite a bit longer. My students said this was their favorite part!

After the ceremony, was the Hākari, or food, that lifts the weight of the sacred ceremony. All of the students from New Zealand and OPRF took off their shoes and entered the marae, and prayed and sang together. To say it was special and sacred, is to state an understatement.

E hoa ma, ina te ora o te tangata

My friends, this is the essence of life

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